Further study options

Application deadlines and processes for graduate study programmes differ so you need to make sure you check the relevant dates and requirements for any programme you are considering. Many programmes require completion of an online application form, provision of a transcript of your academic transcript, two academic references and a personal statement/statement of motivation so make sure to allow yourself enough time to pull all of this together.

Watch our (opens in a new window)"5 Minutes on Personal Statements"video. 

There are lots of useful course search websites, for example Gradireland (for ROI and NI), Prospects (UK) and (opens in a new window)Masters Study Portal. These sites also provide helpful tips on making effective applications.  (opens in a new window)Education USA provides information on further study in the USA and (opens in a new window)Top Universities provides a comprehensive global ranking of universities.

If you are planning to study in the USA you may be required to sit a standardised test in advance; for example the Graduate Management Admissions Tests (GMAT) or Graduate Record Exam (GRE). If you are planning to do graduate entry medicine you will also need to complete a standardised test. In Ireland, the Graduate Medical Schools Admissions Test (GAMSAT) is used. Make sure you factor these types of requirements into your application timeline.

Funding can be an issue for many postgraduate students. You can find information on student grants available in Ireland on the (opens in a new window)Citizens Information website. The (opens in a new window)Irish Research Council funds scholars at various career stages, including postgraduate study. It’s also worth checking with the university you are planning to attend whether there are any scholarships or bursaries you might be eligible for. You can find useful information on a variety of funding sources on the GradIreland website and the (opens in a new window)Education in Ireland website.